Event Description

Part of what can make discussing LGBTQ inclusion in the church difficult is the multiple layers involved in this conversation. For many non-affirming Christians, these discussions raise concerns that go beyond the surface, connecting to deeply-held values about Scripture and sexual ethics.

Many fear that the church becoming LGBTQ-affirming will inevitably result in diminished respect for the Bible’s authority and increased acceptance of a sexual ethic based only on consent. In her new book The Bible and Sexuality, biblical scholar Karen Keen addresses these concerns with academic rigor and pastoral sensitivity. Informed by her thorough analysis of relevant biblical texts, she argues for monogamy and covenant as vital to the church’s sexual ethic—and critically, her approach is rooted in grace rather than shame.

Keen’s work is one of the most important contributions to conversations about sexuality in the church in years, and it is essential reading for all Christians. Join Matthew Vines on Saturday, August 29 as he hosts a 90-minute webinar with Keen about her new book, Scripture, and sexual ethics. We encourage you to read her book before the webinar, although no familiarity with it will be assumed.

About Karen

Karen R. Keen is a biblical scholar, author, and spiritual director. Founder of the Redwood Center for Spiritual Care and Education, she has taught biblical and theological studies in both academic and church settings. She is passionate about spiritual wellness and formation through practices of care and education. Keen earned her M.S. in education (counseling) from Western Oregon University, M.A. in exegetical theology from Western Seminary, and Th.M. in biblical studies from Duke Divinity School.

About Matthew

Matthew Vines is the founder and Executive Director of The Reformation Project. He is also the author of God and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships, published by Convergent Books in 2014. In 2012, Matthew delivered a speech at a church in his hometown of Wichita, Kansas, making the case that Christians should affirm gay Christians and their marriage relationships. His speech went viral, having been seen more than a million times and leading to a feature story in The New York Times. In 2013, Matthew launched The Reformation Project to equip and empower Christians to advocate for LGBTQ inclusion in their faith communities. He speaks regularly at churches, universities, and conferences across the country.